HC Deb 05 March 1946 vol 420 cc177-8
58. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that £72,500,000 were lent to the Treasury free of interest for the prosecution of the war; if, in view of the great need for houses at the present time, he will consider making an appeal to the people of this country to lend their money free of interest for the purpose of financing housing; and if he will consider empowering local authorities to receive such loans.

Mr. Dalton

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes," and to the second and third parts "No, Sir." But I shall be most happy to receive on behalf of H.M. Government, any further interest free loans from any quarter.

Mr. Gallacher

Does the Chancellor realise the very strong feeling there is among local authorities and people generally as to the necessity for interest-free loans for house building, as interest demands are one of the biggest obstacles to the Government's housing programme?

Mr. Dalton

If there is anyone who feels like that, he can make me an interest-free loan.

Mr. Kirkwood

Is it not very strange that hon. Members opposite should be smiling at this Question, when at the same time they are very anxious to get money free of interest from America? Can we riot get money free of interest from our own folk—[Laughter.] They are just a lot of brass faces, that is all.